'Watching Dravid and Williamson': KL Rahul Credits Rahul Dravid & Kane Williamson For Improved Game

Indian batter KL Rahul has opened up about his early career struggles, revealing that he initially tried to emulate big-hitting styles, despite not being naturally inclined towards it. However, observing success of legends like Rahul Dravid and Kane Williamson , who remained true to ir natural games, me him reassess his approach. 

KL Rahul mitted that in his younger days, he often attempted to be someone he wasn't, trying to fit into a mold that didn't suit him. This realization sparked a transformation in his mindset, allowing him to evolve into stylish and effective batter he is today, embracing his auntic playing style.

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KL Rahul on how he changed his game in shortest format

"I think I grew as an individual and as a player. As a youngster, I tried really hard to be someone I wasn’t, trying to hit big sixes to prove I could," Rahul said in an exclusive interview on Star Sports.

"It just wasn't coming naturally. What changed for me was watching Rahul Dravid in one of IPL seasons around 2011 or 2012. He stayed true to his technique, and he was one of best batsmen. Seeing him do well in one-day and T20 cricket without changing his game changed something in me," he ded.

"I also spent time with Kane Williamson at SRH. He didn’t get many chances, but he’d still go back and play amazing white-ball innings for New Zealand.

"Watching Dravid and Williamson, I realized I didn’t need to try so hard. I h certain gifts I could use in T20 cricket to find success."

"Once I embraced that mindset, things ed for me. In 2016 IPL, I h Virat and AB’s guidance— best T20 players around. Just talking to m at training about my game me a difference. Once performances started coming, confidence followed.”

"I h just debuted in T20Is for India and scored that 100 in Miami against West Indies, so I h some recent T20 runs and confidence behind me. It was a new franchise, and I was excited, especially after high price tag y paid, which I hn’t expected." 

"That season came with pressure, being a new team and all, but my mind was clear at that time. I was confident in my game, knew what I h to do, and kept it simple. 2018 was probably best T20 year for me.

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"Expectations were mostly from Kings XI Punjab due to high price tag, but beyond that, I was free to play my game, without feeling like I h to take responsibility. That allowed me to play with freedom, and while it was a great year personally, as a team, we struggled." Rahul, who led Lucknow Super Giants since its inception, was released by franchise. He is expected to invoke a bidding war at mega auction in Riyh on November 24 and 25.

(With PTI inputs)